Introduction
MNSOM uses two types of Text Overview homework assignments. One type is the traditional Bible Institute format. The other type is online using the Moodle Learning Platform.
Homework typically takes fifteen to twenty hours per month to complete, but may vary depending on student study habits. It is important to have the homework completed before class. Forty percent of the grade is based on homework and the exam is also based on the homework.
Bible Institute Format
The Bible Institute format is a very tradition method used in many Bible Institutes and most District Schools of Ministry. The assignments require copying text information, normally word for word out of the textbook. To find answers, students look for keywords or phrases as they read the textbook.
These assignments are graded in class by students exchanging papers. So it is important to copy word for word and to bring one assignment computer printout for correcting in class and turning in for MNSOM records. The Text Overview assignments are posted at the MNSOM Moodle site and can be downloaded.
For Zoom format classes (when in-person is cancelled for bad weather), complete the typed homework as stated above. You will correct it in class and then email a copy (Word or PDF) to mnsom@mnaog.org in order to turn in a copy for MNSOM records.
Moodle Learning Platform
Over one-third of MNSOM courses are on the Moodle Learning Platform. (Click here for How-To guide) These are the courses using Faith and Action Series textbooks and are due by noon the day before class. The assignments consist of a ten-question multiple-choice quiz for each textbook chapter (any further charts or questions in the textbook are optional). Each quiz has the advantage of computer feedback on whether questions were answered correctly. Textbook references are provided so students can review the pertinent study material. Students are allowed to retake each quiz. The first quiz score will be recorded for grading purposes. Our experience with this system is that students are better prepared for class and ask more in-depth questions during classroom homework review.
As statistical information is gathered, MNSOM will provide more in-depth explanations for questions that more commonly missed and we will work to improve the questions.
How to Access the Moodle Learning Platform
The website for these overviews is https://mnsommoodle.org/login/index.php . The student’s username is his or her email address in lower case letters. The initial student password will be emailed to you (case sensitive.) Student’s names and email addresses are manually entered by MNSOM staff. Students are encouraged to edit their profile and will be required to change their password. Email preferences can also be changed.
Courses with Bible Institute Text Overviews will have a Word document that can be downloaded by clicking on link provided. You will need to have one typed and printed out copy for turning in as you arrive at class (you will later correct it with your instructor).
Courses with Faith & Action Series textbooks will have a PDF document that can be downloaded by clicking on the link provided. You will be completing quizzes on Moodle to enter your responses to the chapter review questions in the text overview. Note that some have been modified and improved by MNSOM from the original textbook version. The quizzes are due by noon the day before class. Have a paper copy of your answers for class discussion.